Undoing a Storm’s Damage
As the waters rose on the afternoon of September 8, the children of the Sisters of Charity Orphanage grew more fearful. The increasing winds and rains were eroding the sand dunes that protected the orphanage. Moving the 93 children to the second story of the stronger of two dormitories, the sisters had the orphans sing the French hymn “Queen of the Waves” to calm and comfort them as much as possible.
Further inland, people sought safe shelter as businesses and homes began to be invaded by the rising bay waters, along with the continuing rain. But because this city had seen many storms and floods over the years, leaving behind little more than inconvenience, the residents believed this one to be no different, and they continued life at its normal pace. Wading in water two to four feet deep were those making their way home for the day or helping others find dry shelter, oblivious to the real danger at hand. The local forecast official sent a special report to Washington after a 3:30 p.m. observation, telling of the rising waters and condition of the streets. After an advisory, many living by the beach made the decision to take their families to the center of the city, a move that would ultimately save their lives. Families opened their homes to those in need, sheltering 40 or 50 people in some instances.
After 6 p.m. the winds intensified to around 100 miles per hour, and the city was completely flooded. As buildings began to crumble, so did the confidence of the people. Realizing the danger at hand, many climbed to second stories and roofs. Many were killed by debris while trying to escape the storm.
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